Barracks Row Standby Banana Cafe Is Closing December 16

Seems no one is immune from the impermanence of the hospitality industry these days, whether it be a family-run restaurant with a passion for live music, a modern wine bar, or a regional bakery.

BARRACKS ROW—After two decades of serving ropa vieja and mofongo, Banana Cafe founder Jorge Garcia-Meitin Zamorano is exiting the restaurant business. “After 25 wonderful years of great memories and good times at Banana Cafe and Piano Bar, it is time to say farewell,” Zamorano alerted fans in a social media blast sent out over the weekend. The neighborhood eatery is scheduled to close Saturday, December 16.

BETHESDA—Chain wine bar Vino Volo has closed its outpost in Bethesda, Maryland. Bethesda Row reports that the five-year-old establishment (7427 Woodmont Avenue) suffered from withering support as the local nightlife scene shifted direction.

CHINATOWN—Baltimore-born Dangerously Delicious Pies closed its Chinatown location November 29 and is turning it over to Alexandria-based coffee and sweets shop Killer E.S.P. “We are excited to announce that our 675 I Street NE location will be operated by our friends over at Killer E.S.P in the new year,” Dangerously Delicious announced on its website, adding, “Have no fear! Killer E.S.P always has, and will continue to carry Dangerously Delicious Pies along with other treats and amazing coffee drinks.”